"Imagine what it is like to never be able to go to a playground? It's not that you can't use the swings and other equipment - you can't even get into the place. All you can do is sit on your wheelchair or stand supported by your leg braces and watch, pretending to enjoy the other kids playing." -- Judi Bailey

What will make Bodie’s Place different from other playgrounds in the city? 

This playground will have several key features to allow easy accessibility and unique details to support all of its visitors no matter their unique abilities.  For example, every person will be able to reach the highest point of the park for there will be double-wide ramping to allow everyone to ride or walk to the greatest height. The double wide ramp will also promote social interaction between its participants for even two wheelchair users will be able to pass each other on the way up or down.  Everyone can be in the middle of the fun for the structures are configured to allow each person access on and off with ease.  Inclusive devises such as high back swings and other adaptive features such as raised sand tables and bouncers wide enough to allow adults to sit with their child are incorporated into the natural design layout.  Further, Bodie’s Place would promote sensory rich activities such as musical equipment, and tactile structures to develop children’s senses and heighten less developed ones.  Finally, developmentally sized equipment will be built to allow for safe movement, while raising a child’s self confidence through successfully being able to accomplish a task.

Along with the physical structures, more tranquil and calming areas would be established.  The natural environment lends itself to develop gardens for meditation, while fountains and other water features provide a calming place for rest and relaxation.  By providing such sanctuaries, families will spend more time communing with their children and the world around them.  Educational programs would be developed to maintain and study these natural habitats.  Local community groups would offer their expertise to create and enhance these natural havens.

Beyond the physical structure, Bodie’s Place will promote a meeting place for the community because of its surrounding features.  In order to be truly accessible, all barriers must be stripped away.  So flat open walkways to and from the playground would be incorporated allowing walkers, wheelchairs and other assistive equipment to safely and independently be used to access the facilities.  Those facilities must include completely accessible lavatories and drinking fountains and picnic areas that promote everyone “sitting at the table” together. Fencing around the entire site also promotes a sense of well being and comfort for families so they may all enjoy their time together without fear of their child’s unpredictable behaviors. Plentiful parking would also allow more time to be spent at the playground, especially if neighboring sites such as soccer field and community gardens are within walking distance. 

There are a few playgrounds for All in our area. The best way to understand the potential of such playgrounds is going to visit one or more of them.

To learn more about Boundless Playgrounds, click here.

For a list of the closest playgounds for all, click here.